Golden Berries are the dried fruit of the plant species Physalis peruviana, also known as Cape gooseberry. It is distantly related to tomato, eggplant and potato, but despite its name, it is not closely related to Ribes, Indian or Chinese gooseberry. The plant is native to the high-altitude, tropical portions of Chile and Peru. It is now grown around the world and in different climates.

Indus organics golden berries are grown in Peru.

Golden Berries have a characteristic, mildly tart flavor that is enjoyed in pies and jams, green and fruit salads, and can nicely compliment avocado. It would make a tasty alternative to raisins or dried cranberries, whenever those are used in cereal, smoothies or trail mix.

Golden Berry Spicy Tomato Salad

INGREDIENTS

• 1 handful dried golden berries, chopped
• 1-2 avocados, diced
• 1 small head lettuce
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon agave
• 1 teaspoon hot chili pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons flaxseed oil
• 1/4 onion, diced
• 1 cup parsley, chopped
• 1/2 small red pepper, diced
• 1/2 small yellow pepper, diced
• 3 large tomatoes, chopped

1. Mix together golden berries, tomatoes, parsley, onion, and (mild) peppers in a large salad bowl.
2. Whisk together the (hot) chili, flaxseed oil, agave and salt in a small bowl.
3. Pour over tomato mixture and gently stir to combine.
4. Permit the flavors to meld for 10mins-1hr at room temperature.
5. Place lettuce on individual plates, spoon tomato mixture on top, then garnish with avocado.

Golden Berry Granola

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup dried golden berries
• 2 teaspoons chia seeds
• 1/4 cup almonds, chopped
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup cashews, halved
• 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1/4 cup sunflower kernels
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 cups oats (gluten free if desired)

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Combine cinnamon, oats, sunflower kernels, coconut flakes, cashews, almonds and chia seeds in a large bowl, mix.
3. Combine honey and oil in a small bowl, microwave for 10 secs and mix well.
4. Add honey mixture to granola mixture and combine until smooth.
5. Line baking sheet with aluminum foil.
6. Distribute granola onto baking sheet in a single layer.
7. Bake for 10 minutes.
8. Remove from oven, mix around, continue to bake for 5 mins and then repeat until toasted as desired. (Approx 20 mins total.)

Golden Berry Strawberry Smoothie

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup dried golden berries
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen coconut meat
• 1 cup strawberries
• 1 cup spinach (optional)
• 1 cup water
• ice

1. If time, soak golden berries in water for 10-20 minutes (optional).
2. Pour golden berries and water into blender.
3. Add coconut milk, strawberries, coconut meat and spinach.
4. Blend until smooth.
5. Add ice to achieve desired temperature and consistency.